Why Do You Need a Running MOT?

Are you a runner looking to take your performance to the next level? Perhaps you’re just starting out and want to build a strong foundation to avoid injury. Whatever your goals, a Running MOT can be the key to unlocking your full potential.

What is a Running MOT?

Think of a Running MOT as a complete checkup for your running form. It’s a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified physiotherapist specialising in musculoskeletal health, like myself. During the MOT, we’ll delve deep into your running style, uncovering any weaknesses or imbalances that could be holding you back or putting you at risk of injury.

Why Get a Running MOT?

New Runner or Getting Back After a Break: Just starting your running journey or returning after a hiatus? A MOT helps ensure you’re developing proper form from the beginning or re-establishing good habits to avoid injury.

Recurring Injuries or Niggles: Experiencing pain, tightness, or limitations in your stride? A MOT can pinpoint the root cause of these issues, allowing us to develop a personalised plan to get you back to pain-free running.

Injury Prevention & Performance Enhancement: Even if you’re feeling good, a MOT can identify underlying weaknesses or imbalances that could lead to future problems. By addressing these proactively, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury and optimise your running technique for better performance.

Benefits of a Running MOT

Preventative Maintenance: Similar to how you get your car serviced regularly, a Running MOT is a proactive approach to maintaining your body’s running machine. It helps identify and address potential issues before they snowball into bigger problems.

Reduced Injury Risk: Running can be demanding on your body. A MOT helps identify weaknesses and imbalances that could lead to overuse injuries. By correcting these issues, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting sidelined.

Improved Running Technique: Expert analysis of your running form can reveal areas for improvement. We can provide personalised guidance on posture, foot strike, stride length, and arm swing to help you run more efficiently and smoothly. Knowing you’re running with proper form and a reduced risk of injury allows you to train with more confidence and focus on achieving your personal bests.

What to Expect During a Running MOT

In-Depth Consultation: We’ll discuss your running history, current training program, goals, any previous injuries, and your current running shoes.

Movement Assessment: A thorough assessment of your posture, range of motion, joint health, and muscle strength is conducted to identify any limitations that could affect your running form.

Gait Analysis: The core of the MOT involves analysing your running form on a treadmill or outdoors. We’ll observe your foot strike, stride length, arm swing, and overall body mechanics to identify areas for improvement.

Results and Benefits

Following your Running MOT, you’ll receive a comprehensive report outlining the findings. This will typically include:

Personalized Injury Prevention Plan: Based on the assessment, we’ll develop a plan that may include biomechanical corrections, running technique adjustments, and targeted exercises to address weaknesses and imbalances.

Exercises to Address Weaknesses: You’ll receive a personalised exercise program specifically designed to strengthen your core muscles, improve flexibility, and address any identified weaknesses.

Injury Prevention Strategies: We’ll provide valuable knowledge and techniques to help you prevent future injuries and keep you running strong.

Improved Running Technique: With expert guidance and adjustments to your running form, you’ll be able to run more efficiently, comfortably, and with less risk of injury.

As a Musculoskeletal and Women’s Health Physiotherapist, I’m passionate about helping runners achieve their goals. Don’t let niggling injuries or inefficient form hold you back. Schedule your Running MOT today and unlock your full running potential!